can you freeze spaghetti squash? (Yes! Here’s How!)
Can you freeze spaghetti squash? Yes – yes, you can! In this post, we will go over how to freeze/preserve spaghetti squash and answer additional questions like “Can you freeze spaghetti squash with meat sauce?” as well as look at whether it’s better to freeze it cooked or in its raw, uncooked form if they option is available.
Yes, you can freeze spaghetti squash! In fact, many people do this to preserve their harvest or to stock up when in season. But can you freeze spaghetti squash and still maintain its flavor and texture? Turns out, you can! You just need to do it the right way. In today’s blog post we will discuss the benefits of freezing spaghetti squash as well as how to go about doing so.
Can You Freeze Spaghetti Squash Raw? Without Cooking it?
Yes, you can! Freezing spaghetti squash raw, without cooking it first does have its set of drawbacks though. The flavor and texture might not be as good after it’s been frozen and then thawed out. This is due to enzymes that are activated when the squash is cut and these enzymes work to break down the cell walls of the vegetable which then degrades the flavor.
It may also become a little mushy or waterlogged. So if you do choose to freeze it raw, make sure you only freeze it for a short period of time – no more than two months. Plus, it doesn’t have the convenience of frozen cooked spaghetti squash – you can’t just pull it out and use it. You’ll need to cook it first and then prepare it for whatever dish you want to use it in.
However, if you are looking to preserve spaghetti squash for later or don’t have time to cook it before freezing, this might be a viable option for you.
Can You Freeze Cooked Spaghetti Squash?
Yes! In fact, freezing cooked spaghetti squash has a ton of benefits over the raw version. For instance, when it’s been frozen and then thawed out, its texture is much more like the freshly cooked variety. And, as an added bonus, freezing it cooked actually helps to retain more of its flavor than if you froze it raw.
And let’s not forget the benefit of being able to go from freezer to table in 10 minutes flat. All you have to do is reheat it, and it’s not even necessary to thaw beforehand!
Why Freeze Spaghetti Squash?
Freezing cooked and raw spaghetti squash is a great way to help you prepare for the busy winter days ahead. Who doesn’t want a quick and healthy meal on hand? It’s also a great way to save time and money. If you’ve ever browsed the frozen food section, a mere 10oz bag can be upwards of $4 to $5 dollars (even more depending on your location). When in season, you can easily get spaghetti squash for around.99 a lb (again, depending on location), which will get you 80oz for just $5 bucks!
If you freeze it cooked, it’s a great last-minute meal option. We all have those days when we forget to pull something out for dinner – with spaghetti squash, you can go straight from freezer to pan. You can also meal prep and premix your favorite meat sauce with your spaghetti squash, freeze and dump when you need it!
What Can You Make With Frozen Spaghetti Squash?
The winter months come with their own fresh produce to make the most of, most notably winter squashes. Spaghetti squash is the most versatile and easiest to work with. Making it one of the best gourds to stock up on when you can get your hands on it.
Freezing spaghetti squash is one of the best ways to preserve it for future use. It can be frozen raw or cooked, and in its pure form or mixed with other vegetables. Frozen spaghetti squash will last up to 12 months when stored correctly in your freezer.
It lends itself as noodles and is perfect in soups, covered in meat sauce, as a side, or even as a main dish! It’s low-carb and perfect for those who are trying to cut out traditional pasta – plus, kids love it!
Here are just a few dishes you can make with this winter gourd:
- Taco Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
- Spaghetti squash with Buffalo chicken
- Spaghetti Squash Carbonara with Pecorino Romano
- Fennel Turmeric Barramundi With Spaghetti Squash And Portobellas
- Mexican Spaghetti Squash Hash Browns
How To Freeze Spaghetti Squash Raw & Cooked Methods
Now that we’ve talked about the best way to freezer spaghetti squash and why you should do it, we will break down how to freeze raw and cooked squash properly.
How To Freeze Raw Spaghetti Squash
If you just can’t find the time to cook your squash before you freeze it, it is definitely better to freeze it raw than let it land in the trash can. Simply follow these steps to freezer spaghetti squash in its raw, uncooked state:
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half, lengthwise
- Remove the seeds and pulp
- Place the halves on a baking sheet cut side down
- Freeze for several hours (at least overnight)
Once frozen solid, remove from the baking sheet and place in a freezer bag or container.
After you remove the seeds and the pulp, you can cut your squash into smaller pieces depending on how much room you have in your freezer.
How To Freeze Cooked Spaghetti Squash
The best way to freeze spaghetti squash is by cooking it first. This can be done in a few ways:
- Boil: Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds and pulp. Boil in water for about 15 minutes or until the squash is soft. Let cool, then freeze
- Bake: Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds and pulp. Place on a baking sheet skin side down and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30-40 minutes or until the squash is fork-tender. Let cool, then freeze
- Microwave: Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds and pulp. Place on a microwave-safe plate or dish, cover with plastic wrap to prevent splatters, then cook for about 12 minutes or until soft. Let cool, then freeze
Once you have cooked your spaghetti squash according to one of these methods, let it cool completely before freezing. This is an important step, as it prevents the squash from pulling in excess moisture, which may result in freezer burn, plus it results in a better texture after being thawed out.
Once cooled, place the cooked spaghetti squash in a freezer bag or container. Be sure to label it with the date so you know how long it’s been in the freezer and how long it’s safe to eat.
Tips & Tricks to Freezing Spaghetti Squash the Right Way
Regardless of whether you’re planning on freezing spaghetti squash raw or after cooking it, here are a few tips and tricks that can help you do it the right way.
- If you are storing your spaghetti squash in a Ziploc bag, press out as much air as possible prior to sealing it shut and placing it in the freezer. Doing this will prevent extra air from reaching your vegetables which can contribute to freezer burn and extend its shelf life for a few more months.
- If you want to cut down on prep time before cooking spaghetti squash after it is thawed, then you can easily cut them into small pieces before freezing. This will not affect the overall taste or texture of spaghetti squash.
- When cooking spaghetti squash, aim to cook the flesh of this vegetable just enough before it starts becoming too soft, which can cause water retention when cooking. One way to tell if your spaghetti squash is cooked well enough is by piercing it through with a fork, whereas there shouldn’t be any resistance at all.
- Freeze your spaghetti squash in portions that will work for your favorite recipes. For example, if you know, you’ll make a dish that calls for one cup of cooked spaghetti squash, measure out one cup before cooking and freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, you can just thaw what you need when you need it.
Freezing Spaghetti Squash FAQs
What are some good recipes to make with frozen spaghetti squash?
There are endless possibilities when it comes to recipes that can be made with frozen spaghetti squash. A few of our favorites include Spaghetti Squash Pesto, Spaghetti Squash and Broccoli Casserole, Spaghetti Squash and Black Bean Tacos, and Spaghetti Squash “Ramen”.
Can you freeze spaghetti squash with meat sauce?
Yes! If you’re a fan of freezer meals, then you can easily freeze spaghetti squash with meat sauce. Just be sure to cook the squash beforehand and let it cool completely before adding it to your favorite pre-made meat sauce.
Can you cook frozen spaghetti squash in an instant pot?
Yes! The only difference between cooking a thawed or frozen spaghetti squash is that the cooking time will vary depending on whether it’s raw or cooked. If you’re using a thawed spaghetti squash, then follow these instructions for how to cook an instant pot spaghetti squash.
Can You Freeze Spaghetti Squash Whole?
One of the easiest ways to freeze your squash whole and simply placing it into a freezer bag for storage. If properly stored, your spaghetti squash should be viable for around 9 months. Keep in mind that if you choose this method, thawing will take some time; allow overnight or all day before cooking/prepping in any way.
How to Reheat Frozen Spaghetti Squash?
The best way to reheat and eat frozen spaghetti squash halves is to cover them up with foil and bake it in the oven at 350 for 20-30 minutes. If you’re working with the spaghetti squash strands you’ll want to reheat them on the stovetop with a little liquid to keep them from drying out. Use medium heat until they are heated through.
Does Cooked Spaghetti Squash Freeze Well?
Yes! Totally. In fact, spaghetti squash is an excellent vegetable to freeze since it has been shown to be able to retain its nutritional value better than most other vegetables do when frozen. Some studies have shown that certain nutrients in the spaghetti squash can increase as opposed to decrease during freezing as long as care is taken with handling and preparation before packaging into bags or containers for the freezer.
Does Frozen Spaghetti Squash Get Mushy?
While frozen spaghetti squash does not get mushy, you will definitely notice a subtle change in its texture as opposed to when it would have been cooked fresh.
Frozen cooked spaghetti squash can also be boiled, steamed, microwaved, or baked after thawing. It can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, such as a replacement for pasta or rice, and is a great addition to many soups and casseroles.
Do I Have To Thaw Frozen Spaghetti Squash Before Reheating?
Nope! You can go directly from the freezer to the stovetop or oven. Keep in mind that it will take longer for your squash to heat up if you do not thaw it before cooking. If you froze your squash in halves you may want to let them sit in the fridge overnight before cooking.
How Long Can You Freeze Spaghetti Squash?
Generally speaking, most types of vegetables can last up to one year when properly frozen in a freezer; spaghetti squash happens to fall within this classification. The main factors that contribute to how long you can freeze spaghetti squash are how it was cooked, whether it was frozen with water or another liquid or whether it was frozen raw.
Ideally, it is best to store spaghetti squash in the freezer for up to six months if you’re hoping for it to maintain excellent quality. It is also a good idea to use an airtight container or freezer bag when storing this type of vegetable.
Freezing is a great way to preserve spaghetti squash for year-round enjoyment!
Freezing spaghetti squash is a simple way to make your favorite dishes all year round and not have to pay an arm and a leg for frozen strands at the grocery store. To get started with freezing this gourd, follow the steps outlined in this guide.
What’s Your Favorite Recipe To Make With Spaghetti Squash? Let Use Know In The Comments Below!
How To Freeze Raw or Cooked Spaghetti Squash
Instructions
How To Freeze Raw, Uncooked Spaghetti Squash
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half, lengthwise
- Remove the seeds and pulp
- Place the halves on a baking sheet cut side down
- Freeze for several hours (or overnight)
- Once frozen solid, remove from the baking sheet and place in a freezer bag or container.
How To Freeze Cooked Spaghetti Squash
Boil:
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds and pulp. Boil in water for about 15 minutes or until the squash is soft. Let cool, then freeze
Bake:
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds and pulp. Place on a baking sheet skin side down and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30-40 minutes or until the squash is fork-tender. Let cool, then freeze
Microwave:
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds and pulp. Place on a microwave-safe plate or dish, cover with plastic wrap to prevent splatters, then cook for about 12 minutes or until soft. Let cool, then freeze
- Once you have cooked your spaghetti squash according to one of these methods, let it cool completely before freezing. This is an important step, as it prevents the squash from pulling in excess moisture, which may result in freezer burn, plus it results in a better texture after being thawed out.
- Once cooled, place the cooked spaghetti squash in a freezer bag or container. Be sure to label it with the date so you know how long it’s been in the freezer and how long it’s safe to eat.
Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.
